Summary
Built in 1850 for recreational purposes, it stands at a height of 16.1 feet with a reservoir capacity of 220 acre-feet. The dam has a low hazard potential and is in fair condition, last inspected in August 2016. Despite being relatively old, Prairie Farm has undergone modifications in 1938, 1951, and 1958 to ensure its continued safety and effectiveness.
Managed by the local government, Prairie Farm is regulated, permitted, inspected, and enforced by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WIDNR). The dam's spillway type is controlled, with a maximum discharge capacity of 6255 cubic feet per second. Its drainage area spans 95.6 square miles, serving as a crucial water resource for the region. With its location in a very high-risk area, the dam's risk assessment is designated as a Level 1, indicating the need for vigilant monitoring and management to mitigate potential hazards.
For water resource and climate enthusiasts, Prairie Farm offers a fascinating case study in dam infrastructure and management. Its historical significance, coupled with its role in recreation and water storage, highlights the importance of maintaining aging infrastructure to ensure public safety and water resource sustainability. As the dam continues to serve its purpose along the Hay River, efforts to monitor, assess, and manage its risks are essential in safeguarding the surrounding community and environment.
Years Modified |
1938 - Other, 1951 - Other, 1958 - Other |
Year Completed |
1850 |
Dam Length |
200 |
Dam Height |
16.1 |
River Or Stream |
Hay River |
Primary Dam Type |
Gravity |
Surface Area |
29 |
Hydraulic Height |
10 |
Drainage Area |
95.6 |
Nid Storage |
220 |
Structural Height |
16.1 |
Hazard Potential |
Low |
Nid Height |
16 |
Seasonal Comparison
Weather Forecast
Nearby Streamflow Levels
Hay River At Wheeler
|
235cfs |
Red Cedar River Near Colfax
|
593cfs |
Red Cedar River At Menomonie
|
599cfs |
Eau Galle River At Spring Valley
|
16cfs |
St. Croix River At St. Croix Falls
|
1470cfs |
Chippewa River At Chippewa Falls
|
1460cfs |
Dam Data Reference
Condition Assessment
SatisfactoryNo existing or potential dam safety deficiencies are recognized. Acceptable performance is expected under all loading conditions (static, hydrologic, seismic) in accordance with the minimum applicable state or federal regulatory criteria or tolerable risk guidelines.
Fair
No existing dam safety deficiencies are recognized for normal operating conditions. Rare or extreme hydrologic and/or seismic events may result in a dam safety deficiency. Risk may be in the range to take further action. Note: Rare or extreme event is defined by the regulatory agency based on their minimum
Poor A dam safety deficiency is recognized for normal operating conditions which may realistically occur. Remedial action is necessary. POOR may also be used when uncertainties exist as to critical analysis parameters which identify a potential dam safety deficiency. Investigations and studies are necessary.
Unsatisfactory
A dam safety deficiency is recognized that requires immediate or emergency remedial action for problem resolution.
Not Rated
The dam has not been inspected, is not under state or federal jurisdiction, or has been inspected but, for whatever reason, has not been rated.
Not Available
Dams for which the condition assessment is restricted to approved government users.
Hazard Potential Classification
HighDams assigned the high hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation will probably cause loss of human life.
Significant
Dams assigned the significant hazard potential classification are those dams where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life but can cause economic loss, environment damage, disruption of lifeline facilities, or impact other concerns. Significant hazard potential classification dams are often located in predominantly rural or agricultural areas but could be in areas with population and significant infrastructure.
Low
Dams assigned the low hazard potential classification are those where failure or mis-operation results in no probable loss of human life and low economic and/or environmental losses. Losses are principally limited to the owner's property.
Undetermined
Dams for which a downstream hazard potential has not been designated or is not provided.
Not Available
Dams for which the downstream hazard potential is restricted to approved government users.
Prairie Farm
Prairie Farm Flowage -- Access